Chilly weather may cause rise in Covid-19 cases

THE ‘ BER’ months does not only usher in the Yuletide Season but could also mean more Coronavirus disease (Covid-19) cases according to a local health official.

In a media forum, Health Services Office ( HSO) chief Doctor Rowena Galpo said since the virus attacks the respiratory system, there is a possibility that Covid- 19 cases may increase in the months of October to February when temperatures usually dip.

“The prevalent chilly weather this October and succeeding months may possibly become a factor for the increase of Covid- 19 cases in Baguio,” she warned.

Galpo advises dressing warmly and keeping one’s self dry during the cold months and continue to lead a healthy lifestyle like eating healthy, engaging in regular exercise, quit smoking and the like to strengthen the immune system.

Having regular flu and pneumonia shots for those aged 50 and above would also be beneficial, she said, since older persons are usually more prone to sickness than their younger peers.

Galpo added other factors for the recent surge in cases are the city’s aggressive contact-tracing campaign and the non- adherence of some residents to minimum health standards despite being repeatedly advised to do so.

These are frequent washing of hands with soap and water, physical distancing of at least one meter, and proper wearing of face masks and face shields in public.

The protocols are mandated by the Department of Health (DOH) and the InterAgency Task Force ( IATF) for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases to prevent the spread of the deadly disease.

Galpo said wearing of face masks and

shields inside homes should also be required for those showing mild Covid- 19 symptoms since she disclosed that most infections occur among family members.

Mild symptoms include fever, dry cough, fatigue, aches and pains, sore throat, diarrhea, conjunctivitis ( sore eyes), loss of taste or smell, skin rashes, and discoloration of toes or fingers.

However, those experiencing severe symptoms like difficulty of breathing or shortness of breath; chest pain or pressure; and loss of speech or movement should immediately seek medical attention, Galpo said. Baguio City Public Information Office